Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy (SGRE) has secured its first preferred supplier nomination in the Japanese offshore wind sector, winning a preferred supplier status for a 455-MW project in Akita prefecture.
The agreement with Obayashi Corporation currently includes using SG 8.0-167 DD offshore wind turbines for the Northern Akita Offshore Wind Farm project, a deal which includes a long-term service agreement, with commercial operation scheduled to start in 2024. All deliveries are subject to Obayashi Corporation’s final investment decision.
The Northern Akita pipeline will reach a capacity of up to 455 MW at a site located in the northern region of Tohoku, Japan. According to the 2018 law promoting offshore wind in Japan, Obayashi Corporation is required to participate in a national tender to secure development rights for the project.
“Entering the Japanese offshore wind market is significant for Siemens Gamesa. It is another example of the true globalization currently taking place within the industry, and we are proud to establish a foothold. We are encouraged by the close cooperation we have with Obayashi Corporation, and will eagerly anticipate this preferred supplier agreement becoming a firm order,” says Andreas Nauen, CEO of the Siemens Gamesa Offshore Business Unit.
In addition, Obayashi Corporation and Siemens Gamesa also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote benefits to the local society throughout the project.